'How do you sever an arm or create blood?!' - Stage set for biggest ever Lytham International Film Festival
“We have some fun with it, people want to create horror.”
The event, running from September 3-6, brings together global storytelling, emerging talent and visionary film making.
This year will be the biggest year yet. It has expanded from a single venue to a multi-venue programme across Lytham, transforming the town into a hub of creativity.
The expansion will allow for more screenings, a wider range of films, and an enhanced programme of industry masterclasses, workshops, and critically recognised Q&A sessions.
Ed Greenberg, director of the festival said: “There is so much going on. We have workshops, masterclasses, behind the scenes for skillfull movie maker or curious members of the public. They are wonderfully entertaining sessions that bring film making into the real world.
“This year we have a industry panel where film makers can pitch their ideas.
“So whether you are an active film maker or you have a project you want to get off the ground, or a hobbyist who wants to find out what makes a good story, we have a panel of judges you can pitch your idea to where they can get some feedback.”
Also for this year is a Horror Practical Effects workshop with Jayson Barnard on how you create horror effects.
“There’s no CGI with this it’s all practical. How do you sever an arm or how do you create blood? We have some fun with it, people want to create horror. How is this stuff done?
“The festival covers every genre, after dark selections which is just for the horror side are wonderfully fun. We enjoy watching some films that are a little more sinister, a little more creepy.”
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The main line-up:
Fri 4th September, 11:45-12:45 Emma Crompton: Inside The Casting Room
What really happens inside the casting room? Acting coach and former casting director Emma Crompton lifts the lid on the realities of casting from both sides of the table. Explore how filmmakers should approach casting directors, what they're looking for in auditions, and how actors can prepare, present themselves, and make confident, informed choices. A practical, honest session designed to deepen understanding between filmmakers and performers and demystify a critical part of the industry.
Fri 4th September, 13:15-14:15 Story pitching with the festival of judges
Unlock the secrets to crafting a compelling screenplay with our esteemed panel of festival judges.
Whether you have a brilliant idea for a new film or need help refining your story, this workshop is for you. Learn what makes a film resonate with audiences, the industry, and festivals. Pitch your stories and ideas to the panel and receive constructive feedback to help you on your writing journey. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry experts!
Sat 5th September, 11:45-12:45 Rebecca Rose Get it made!
Discover how to launch your filmmaking career with award‑winning producer‑director Rebecca Rose, creator of the The Removed, starring Georgie Glen and this year's Official Selection, Grain. Drawing from her own path from early projects to acclaimed festival success, Rebecca will share practical, honest guidance on making your first films count. From shaping your creative voice to building the right team and navigating the festival landscape, this session is packed with insights for emerging filmmakers ready to take their next step. An essential talk for anyone looking to turn ambition into action.
Sat 5th September, 13:15-14:15 The Life of a Stunt Person Ryan Green
The coast's own stunt performer Ryan Green, whose credits include 1917, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, House of the Dragon, Star Wars and The Marvels, shares how he broke into the stunt industry from the Fylde Coast and what life on set is really like. From the training and teamwork behind major productions to the challenges of performing high-risk sequences. Ryan offers an inspiring look at the craft and commitment that drive screen action.
Sun 6th September, 11:45-12:45 Will Jewell Films that land
How do you create stories with impact? And how do you get them funded! Bafta-winning filmmaker, Will Jewell share his insider knowledge on how to craft narratives that resonate with both filmmaker and audience and how to navigate the world of funding. Will's award-winning Wired continues to dominate the circuit and his latest film, The Healer, screens as part of this year's festival. For anyone looking to break into the industry and to get their work seen, this is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to hear from a filmmaker leading the way in independent cinema.
Sun 6th September, 13:15-14:15 Hands-On Horror FX Jayson Barnard
Step inside the world of practical horror effects with Jayson Barnard of Horror Craft UK. In this hands-on session, Jayson demonstrates how to create prosthetics, build severed limbs, and achieve convincing gore on a budget. From materials and moulding to application and on-set tricks, this workshop offers an accessible look at the craft behind low-cost, high impact horror visuals. Ideal for filmmakers trying to elevate their practical effects skills.